For decades, drinking alcohol has been synonymous with socializing, celebrating, and relaxing. But these days, the youth seems to be rewriting the narrative—or at least taking a more conscientious approach. According to The New York Times, alcohol consumption among Gen Z has plummeted compared to Millennials when they were the same age. According to another report, 28% of Gen Z in the United States say they never drink alcohol, compared to only 16% of Millennials.
I wanted to understand why so many of my peers were taking the sober path. Is it because we’ve grown up in an era where “wellness” is a lifestyle—an era in which green juices, adaptogens and matcha lattes are as trendy as some clothing brands? Or, is it that our health consciousness has combined with our notorious predisposition for anxiety has naturally led to a boycott on booze?
To find out, I decided to give sobriety a two month trial for myself. Spoiler: Since my experiment, I have gone back to drinking alcohol from time to time. Still, I truly believe that the experiment changed me for the better. It helped me understand how alcohol impacts me in every way, from my emotions to my physical health. It also helped me be more mindful of my reasons for wanting a drink and better at knowing when I might be attempting to use alcohol as an emotional crutch. Most importantly, it helped me get a handle on my anxiety—something I always thought was out of my control.
How the body responds to quitting alcohol
When you quit alcohol, your body starts a recovery process that can be noticed within the first 24 hours. The liver, which is primarily responsible for metabolizing alcohol, begins to detoxify, which reduces liver inflammation and improves its functions. In the first few days, blood sugar levels also stabilize, as alcohol interferes with glucose regulation.
After one or two weeks, improvements in sleep quality and skin hydration are common. Studies have shown that long term abstinence from alcohol reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, strengthens the immune system, and improves the balance of the intestinal microbiota.
In my case, some of the most noticeable differences were mental clarity, sustained energy levels, and an overall better mood—all of which are also known benefits of “going off the sauce.” Improved physical performance was another key factor; research has shown that alcohol consumption—even in small amounts—reduces muscle protein synthesis and slows recovery. Translated into my experience: the body stopped carrying an invisible stone.
This is obviously all part of a gradual process, because even if you feel sober a few hours after consuming alcohol, the reality is that it stays in your system for much longer than you think. The metabolic process takes approximately six to twelve hours, and even then it can still be detected in your breath and saliva for up to 24 hours; in your urine for up to 15 days, and in your hair for 90 days.
The benefits of quitting alcohol
Although alcohol can help you fall asleep faster, it interferes with the deep phases of sleep, especially REM. By quitting, sleep becomes more restful, which improves mood, memory and concentration during the day.
Alcohol dehydrates and dilates blood vessels, which can lead to redness, acne or dull texture. By eliminating it, skin looks brighter, smoother, and firmer thanks to better hydration and circulation.
Regular drinking weakens the body’s defenses, making you more vulnerable to infections. Without alcohol, the immune system is stronger against viruses and bacteria.
Alcohol alters the balance of the intestinal microbiome and can lead to inflammation. Quitting alcohol improves digestion, nutrient absorption, and regulates metabolism.
Alcohol affects the production and regulation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. When you stop drinking, it is easier to experience stable moods, greater mental clarity, and less anxiety.
Less alcohol, less anxiety
In my case, the decreased anxiety was pretty significant—I’d even say it was borderline life-changing. By the second week, I noticed that I didn’t feel as spastic or nervous about work in the morning; by the third week I noticed my usual Sunday Scaries had all but vanished. Best of all, I felt calmer and more clear throughout the day. I wouldn’t say my anxiety was zero; it was just much easier to manage than usual, and blessedly so.
My two months with sobriety were challenging, and they undoubtedly changed my relationship with drinking. Will I be quitting alcohol forever? Probably not. As I said, I did go back to enjoying the occasional drink after my two months were up. However, I’m definitely much more aware of the benefits of skipping alcohol—I’ve experienced them myself!—and much more likely to reach for a mocktail. Best of all, I know my anxiety isn’t unfixable—it’s something I can manage.
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